Alexander the Great

Alexander the Great In this lesson, students will identify the contributions of Alexander the Great to world history. Students will be able to identify and/or define the following terms: Alexander the Great Macedonia Hellenism E. Napp

Greece’s neighbor to the north is Macedonia. E. Napp

Philip II • Philip II was a king of Macedonia. In 338 B.C., he conquered the Greek city-states. • After his successful conquest of the Greeks, he planned to conquer Persia. • However, he died before he could realize his plan. E. Napp

This ancient coin bears the image of Philip II of Macedonia. E. Napp

Alexander the Great • After the death of Philip II, his son, Alexander, set out to conquer the world. • Alexander quickly conquered Asia Minor, Egypt, and Babylon. By 330 B.C., he defeated all of the Persian armies. • Alexander moved his army all the way to the Indus River. E. Napp

Alexander the Great conquered a vast empire. E. Napp

A Tired Army • When Alexander’s soldiers reached the Indus River, they begged Alexander to turn back. • The Indus River was the end of the known world for his soldiers. • In 323 B.C., Alexander developed a fever in Babylon. He died within a few days. E. Napp

Alexander the Great was only 32 when he died. For 13 years, he had ruled a vast empire. E. Napp

After the death of Alexander • Alexander’s empire fell apart after his death. • His three generals divided the empire into three kingdoms-Macedon, Egypt, and Syria. • These kingdoms often fought each other but they were united by their common Greek culture. E. Napp

After the death of Alexander the Great, his vast empire was divided among his generals. E. Napp

Hellenism • Alexander the Great spread Greek culture throughout his empire. • As Greek culture spread eastward, it blended with other cultures. This blend of eastern and western cultures is called Hellenism. • Hellenism comes from the Greek word “Hellas”, which means “their own land.” E. Napp

Hellenism is a Greek like culture. E. Napp

Hellenistic Culture • Hellenistic culture shaped the Mediterranean world for nearly 300 years. • However, Alexander’s dream of creating an enduring empire with one government did not come true. • After Alexander’s death, the Romans eventually realized this dream E. Napp

Alexander the Great spread Greek culture throughout the Mediterranean world. E. Napp

Questions for Reflection: • Where is Macedonia located? • List two accomplishments of Alexander the Great. • Why did Alexander’s soldiers want to return home after invading the Indus River Valley? • What happened to Alexander’s empire after his death? Why did this happen? • Define Hellenism. E. Napp

Alexander the Great